Who Are Prince Louis’s Godparents?

A little over two months ago, Prince William and Kate Middleton welcomed their third child, Prince Louis. Today, at the Chapel Royal at St. James’s Palace, he will be baptized.

By his side will be six godparents: Nicholas van Cutsem, Guy Pelly, Harry Aubrey-Fletcher, Lady Laura Meade, Hannah Carter, and Lucy Middleton. “The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have asked the following people to be godparents to Prince Louis, all of whom are friends or family of Their Royal Highnesses,” the palace said in a statement.

Van Cutsem has long been a friend to both William and Prince Harry—his daughter, Florence, was a bridesmaid at the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s May 19 wedding. Aubrey-Fletcher and Pelly, too, are longtime royal associates. Pelly was famous for helping run the London nightclub Mahiki and was known as the “court jester” of William’s inner circle growing up.

Lady Laura Meade is married to James Meade, a friend of William’s who made a speech at his 2011 wedding.

Carter attended school with the Duchess of Cambridge, and the two remained close even after her ascent into the royal world. Lucy Middleton is Kate’s cousin.

Six godparents, to most, seems a little excessive. But it is simply the royal way: Prince George has seven, and Princess Charlotte has five. Prince William himself has six.

It’s also notable that William and Kate have again favored childhood friends over close family members. Only one relative got the nod—suggesting that the couple wants to make sure their children have plenty of non-royals in their lives. But ardent Harry and Meghan watchers, have no fear: The palace confirmed that they will be in church today, supporting their new nephew.